Dental implants require bone for long term stability much like the natural teeth. However, where teeth have been lost, in severe gum disease and even with the process of ageing, bone levels can become deficient.

This can potentially compromise the stability of the dental implant. In this situation bone grafting may be required where additional granules or blocks of bone can be added to the deficient area to help the implant integrate better into the jaw bone.

An additional healing graft material is often applied over the top to cover and secure the bone graft in the area to ensure adequate healing.

Research has show the benefits of bone grafting in implant treatment and the success rates are very high. Very occasionally your own bone can also be used, but this has been superseded by bone substitute materials as it is less invasive and the success rates for bone substitute materials are very high.

Your dentist will discuss which type of bone graft is required before any treatment commences.